Hadith #9717

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

مِنْ أفْضَلِ المُرُوَّةِ صِلَةُ الرَّحِمِ۔

This can be translated as,

Keeping ties with near relatives is from the most excellent magnanimity.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and explore its significance in light of the Quran.

The word (muruwwah) "مُرُوَّةِ" in this Hadith refers to magnanimity, kindness, and noble behavior. It encompasses the virtues of compassion, generosity, and maintaining good relations with others. Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes that one of the highest forms of magnanimity is to maintain ties with our near relatives.

This teaching of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) repeatedly emphasizes the importance of maintaining family ties and treating relatives with kindness and respect.

In Surah An-Nisa, Allah says, (Quran 4:36)

Worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the neighbor farther away, the companion at your side, the traveler, and those whom your right hands possess. Indeed, Allah does not like those who are self-deluding and boastful.

This verse highlights the importance of treating parents and relatives with kindness and goodness. It reminds us that maintaining family ties is an essential part of our worship of Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra, Allah says, (Quran 17:23-24)

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, 'My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.'

These verses emphasize the importance of treating parents with respect and kindness. They also indirectly highlight the significance of maintaining ties with other relatives, as they are often closely connected to our parents.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement reminds us that maintaining ties with our near relatives is not only a moral obligation but also a manifestation of our faith. It is an act of magnanimity that reflects the noble character of a believer.

When we maintain ties with our relatives, we strengthen the bonds of love and unity within our families. This leads to a harmonious and supportive environment, where individuals can thrive and grow. It also fosters a sense of belonging and security, as we know that we have a network of support and care.

On the other hand, neglecting our relatives can lead to strained relationships, resentment, and division within families. It can create a sense of isolation and loneliness, both for ourselves and our relatives. Moreover, neglecting our relatives goes against the teachings of Islam and can have negative consequences in this life and the hereafter.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder for us to reflect on our relationships with our relatives. It urges us to prioritize maintaining ties with them, even in challenging circumstances. It encourages us to reach out, forgive, and reconcile, for the sake of Allah and for the betterment of our families.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us that maintaining ties with our near relatives is an act of magnanimity and a reflection of our faith. It aligns perfectly with the teachings of the Quran, which emphasize the importance of treating relatives with kindness and respect. By nurturing these relationships, we create a strong foundation for love, unity, and support within our families. May Allah guide us to fulfill this noble duty and grant us the ability to maintain strong ties with our near relatives.